Frequently Asked Questions
Ceremony
How and when will I receive detailed information regarding the commencement ceremony?
Approximately two months prior to commencement, all eligible candidates will receive an email invitation via their NSU SharkLink account to complete a Commencement Participation Form (CPF) and order a cap and gown (regalia) directly from the NSU Bookstore vendor Oak Hall Cap & Gown. Completing a CPF reserves a space in the appropriate commencement ceremony.
Candidates should refer often to NSU's Commencement Web site for complete, updated, and additional information.
Where and when will the NSU Commencement ceremonies be held?
All 2012 NSU Commencement ceremonies will be conducted at the BankAtlantic Center (BAC), located at 2555 Panther Parkway (Northwest 136 Avenue), in Sunrise, Florida. Click here for driving directions to the BAC.
Does a degree need to be conferred before a candidate is invited to commencement?
Candidates who have achieved degree conferral status since the date of last year’s commencement exercises, and prior to this year’s ceremony dates, are automatically invited to participate this year (as long as they were not invited to participate in a prior year).
Otherwise, each program/school determines its “participation requirements.” When in doubt, check with your program office or visit its commencement Web site for clarification on the requirements that must be met in order to be invited.
Is there a rehearsal? How early should candidates report to the ceremony?
Rehearsals are not conducted as many candidates travel long distances to attend NSU Commencement. Candidates are asked to arrive when the doors open, one hour prior to the start of the ceremony for instructions and appropriate placement for the processional.
How does my name appear in the printed commencement program?
Names for the commencement program are retrieved from the student information system. If you have noticed an error in previous communications, correct the error via your SharkLink account, or fax the corrections, along with your student ID number and any required documents to NSU Data Entry at (954) 262-2915. Any noted discrepancy of academic major should be brought to the immediate attention of your academic advisor.
I am the first graduate of an exceptionally large family. How can I get enough tickets for all of them to attend?
Since the BankAtlantic Center is large enough to accommodate several thousand guests, there are no admission tickets required. Therefore, there is no limit to the number of invitees a candidate can ask to commencement. However, we do recommend that large groups of guests wishing to sit together arrive early because the Center will not permit the saving of seats.
Can my parents come up to the stage to take my picture as I receive my diploma?
The University has made arrangements with a professional photographer to capture the exact moment each candidate shakes hands with the dean or president. Unfortunately, due to the large number of people assigned to work and/or assist the candidates on the arena floor, for security purposes, family members must remain in their seats at all times.
How long will the ceremony last?
Ceremonies are usually two to three hours in length.
Must I stay for the entire ceremony?
The University has made every attempt to consolidate the length of ceremonies by shortening the speeches and providing a constant flow of candidates as they walk across the stage, without sacrificing each candidate's special moment. It is important that each and every candidate be given an opportunity in the spotlight. Therefore, as a courtesy to your fellow classmates and their guests, please return to your seat and remain there until all candidates have walked across the stage.
Will there be an opportunity to purchase flowers and gifts for the newly-conferred graduate?
Commencement bouquets and floral arrangements will be available for purchase in the lobby of the BankAtlantic Center, but can only be given to candidates after the ceremony. Official NSU merchandise will also be available for purchase at the Bookstore kiosk located on the main concourse.